FUN WORLD

Humans can contract anthrax through skin lesions and cuts, by eating an infected animal's flesh and by inhaling the spores. Inhalation of spores is the deadliest and most threatening form of anthrax to contract, as the spores are transported directly to the chest. They attach themselves to the lymph nodes in the chest, then multiply and migrate to other parts of the body. All the while, they generate toxins that are extremely harmful to the body's health. The dangerous and contagious properties of the anthrax virus have made it a bioweapon of choice. To prevent any risk of infection, an anthrax vaccine has been developed. It is administered to military personnel and civilians employed in the field of bio-terrorism defense or deployed in Iraq, Afghanistan and South Korea. While the vaccine is highly effective against anthrax, there have been complaints of after effects. In this article, we take a look at possible anthrax vaccine side effects and what can be done to minimize the effects.

Anthrax Vaccine Side Effects

Here are the mild and common side effects of the anthrax vaccine:

• Lump or bruise formed at the area of injection
• Redness and itching at the area of injection
• Stiffness and joint pain in the injected arm
• Mild headaches
• Feeling tired and dizzy
• Temporary breathing problems

Severe and rare side effects include:

• Allergic reaction
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills
• Asthma
• Muscles aches and pains
• Loss of appetite
• Hives

The occurrence of any side effects from getting the anthrax vaccine is higher in women than men. Any adverse reaction at the site of the injection lasts for a few days to a week. The injected area can remain swollen or inflamed for 2-3 weeks. The occurrence of severe effects is rare.

Anthrax Vaccine Schedule

The vaccine is administered in the form of a subcutaneous (just under the skin) injection. A total of 5 doses must be given over a course of 2 years. After the first dose, the secondary doses are administered after a period of 4 weeks, 6 months, 12 months and 18 months respectively. The dosage is supplemented with annual boosters. Certain individuals are at a higher risk of exhibiting anthrax vaccine side effects. The groups that should be cautious with this vaccine are:

• Pregnant women
• People under 18 years of age
• Senior citizens above the age of 65
• People who are recovering from a serious illness or still sick with an illness
• Those who are allergic to latex
• Those who have recovered from a previous anthrax infection
• Those who have had an allergic reaction to the anthrax vaccine
• Those who have had allergic reactions to any vaccine
• People with a history of Guillain Barré syndrome

The anthrax vaccine is recommended for the following groups:

• Animal handlers, especially livestock animals
• Certain military personnel depending on the Department of Defense
• Research and laboratory workers
• Those working with animal products